Magic 4-Ingredient Potato Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Magic 4-Ingredient Potato Bake is incredibly easy to make, yet delivers so much flavor with just four simple ingredients. The combination of creamy thickened cream, French onion soup mix, and cheese creates a rich and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion. It’s great for family dinners, potlucks, or even a special holiday meal. The best part? You only need four ingredients, which makes it both convenient and budget-friendly!

Ingredients

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes, thinly sliced

• 300ml (1¼ cups) thickened cream (heavy cream)

• 1 packet French onion soup mix (about 40g)

• 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream and French onion soup mix. Stir well to ensure the soup mix is fully dissolved into the cream.

3. Add the sliced potatoes to the bowl and stir until they are evenly coated with the cream mixture.

4. Grease a baking dish and layer the potatoes inside, making sure to pour over any leftover cream mixture.

5. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top of the potatoes.

6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

7. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 20–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

8. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4–6 servings.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs: If you prefer a little extra flavor, add some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the cream mixture before layering the potatoes.

• Different cheese: Experiment with other types of cheese, like mozzarella for a stretchier texture or a sharp blue cheese for a more robust taste.

• Vegan version: Use a plant-based cream and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version of this dish.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the potato bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 2-3 minutes, depending on the portion size.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any variety of potato, though starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold work best as they break down and absorb the cream beautifully.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add extra time to the baking process if you are starting with a cold dish.

3. Can I use sour cream instead of thickened cream?

Yes, you can use sour cream for a tangy twist, but keep in mind it will change the texture and flavor of the dish. Thickened cream will give you a richer, smoother result.

4. Can I freeze the potato bake?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Once cooled, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 1–1.5 hours.

5. How can I make the potato bake even creamier?

For an even creamier texture, try adding a bit of milk to the cream mixture or using a combination of cream and a small amount of cream cheese.

6. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as the French onion soup mix typically doesn’t contain gluten. However, always check the label to be sure.

7. Can I use a different soup mix?

Yes, if you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the French onion soup mix with other flavors like leek or vegetable soup mix for a variation.

8. Do I need to peel the potatoes before slicing them?

Peeling the potatoes is optional. If you prefer a rustic look and texture, you can leave the skins on for added fiber and a more rustic feel.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to serve more people. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly.

10. How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Conclusion

This Magic 4-Ingredient Potato Bake is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With just four ingredients, you can create a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. Enjoy!